Arts administrator

Arts administrator job description: Typical employers | Qualifications and training | Key skills | Useful links | Find jobs and courses

This role is ideal for people who want to work in the art world, but shy away from the limelight of centre stage.

Arts administration encompasses a wide range of roles - from community arts promotion, to theatre ‘front-of-house’ work and festival organisation.

There is no ‘typical’ job profile, and arts administrators may have marketing, advertising, publicity, market research or public relations roles.

Alternatively, they may be responsible for general or financial administration, project management, accountancy or human resource management.

Many arts administrators work in a general ‘go-to guy’ capacity, taking on tasks from all of these areas.

Irregular hours are common, but you can also expect to be one of the first people to see a new show, and you will be working alongside people who are very passionate about their job.

Vacancies are advertised in newspapers, regional arts magazines and specialist publications such as The Musical Times and The Stage.

As with many roles in the sector, starting salaries are fairly low, and depending on your position, work can be seasonal or temperamental. However, there are perks, and it can be a very rewarding job.

Typical employers of arts administrators

• Regional arts boards (RABs)
• Government-funded arts councils of England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland
• Local authorities
• Charities
• Theatres
• Arts centres
• Festival/venue offices
• Universities.

Qualifications and training required

While no specific degree subject is required, an arts administration MA, or an artistic or business management qualification can be helpful. Vacancies attract fierce competition, so a strong body of relevant work experience is vital. This can be gained by volunteering or working part-time with venues, helping to organise university events or by assisting with arts festivals. A demonstrable passion for the arts is vital.

Key skills for arts administrators

Administrators will need to have good communication skills in order to manage artists and engage with the public. Other key skills include:

• basic accounting
• adaptability
• working well under pressure
• promotion skills
• IT skills
• organisation skills.